The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) released its 2023 Economic Contributions of Recreational Fishing: U.S. Congressional Districts Report, an update to the data collected by the ASA in partnership with Southwick Associates, which noted angler participation and the economic impacts across all 50 states and the country’s 435 congressional districts.
America’s 52.4 million anglers contribute $148 billion to the economy and support 945,500 jobs in the U.S. while contributing $1.8 billion towards conservation. While jobs supported include the manufacturing and selling of fishing equipment and gear, recreational fishing also supports jobs in other industries, including hotel lodging, restaurants, charter boat trips, and more.
“As Congress debates future legislation that affects our industry, it is important that members of Congress have data to make the best available decision,” said ASA Vice President of Government Affairs Mike Leonard. “This study will help show members of Congress that recreational fishing is an economic driver and job creator in their state or district. We hope this information drives home the tremendous value sportfishing has to the nation and, therefore, the importance of supporting fisheries conservation and public access.”
Following the data’s release, Southwick Associates President Rob Southwick stated, “While sportfishing provides millions of days of escape and fun across the country, many people do not realize its significant economic contributions. Sportfishing is an economic engine that needs the same level of care and considerations as other critical industries.”
The data were compiled through previous estimates from past ASA studies and data collected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation. State and district-level data are estimated from mapping and population software that identifies smaller geographic areas, specifically Congressional districts. The study is founded on 2021 estimates identifying angler participation and spending trends.
To read the report, go here. Further information on ASA’s advocacy efforts, on and off Capitol Hill, can be found here.
